George C. Marshall: More Than a History Lesson

Marshall was a key player in many historic events of the twentieth century. He was recognized for distinguished service in both World Wars; earned the rank of Five-Star General; and held positions as U.S. Army Chief of Staff, Secretary of State, and Secretary of Defense.

He also served as the President of the American Red Cross; headed a U.S. delegation to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth; and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1953 for what is now known as The Marshall Plan - his innovative and humanitarian approach to rebuilding Europe after World War Two.

Exploring Marshall's extraordinary professional accomplishments and unbending integrity as a leader is an enriching and rewarding experience for students, teachers, and enthusiasts alike. It inspires us to reach our own potential.

The Center's Educational Offerings

Education is the cornerstone of our programming. Accordingly, the George C. Marshall International Center has developed a variety of comprehensive educational programs - delivered onsite at Dodona Manor or in the classroom - to meet the specific needs of teachers and students.

From our successful Marshall Immersion Workshop for high school American history teachers (now in its fifth year) to school presentations about Marshall's role in 20th-century history to fieldstrips of Dodona Manor to our Elementary Learning Package - our education programs and materials are captivating, interactive, and compatible with Virginia's Standards of Learning.

In addition, the Center's Docent Training Program provides a wonderful opportunity for historians and preservation enthusiasts to learn more about Marshall's extraordinary accomplishments while preparing to support a wonderful institution.

To learn more about the Marshall Summer Immersion Workshop, to schedule a school presentation about George C. Marshall or a fieldtrip to Dodona Manor, or to sign up for the next docent training session contact Education Coordinator Patricia Black at (703) 777-1880 or dodonadocentpat@aol.com.

Customized Offerings

Rachel Thompson, Special Projects Consultant for the George C. Marshall International Center, has more than 30 years experience in the field of history as an educator, curriculum specialist, writer, and consultant. She shares her vast knowledge, skill and enthusiasm with teachers through the Marshall Immersion Workshop and with students during fieldtrips of Dodona Manor.

Guest Speaker

By pre-arrangement, Ms. Thompson is available as a guest-speaker for elementary and high school audiences, and in civic group and community settings. Fees for speaking engagements vary based on length and content of presentation, and are established in accord with Ms. Thompson directly.

Student Workshop

Also by pre-arrangement, Ms. Thompson can conduct a half-day workshop with students using archival documents, and focusing on crucial decisions made by Marshall either during World War Two or in the post-war era. Students work with primary documents, formulate solutions to problems outlined in the documents, and compare their approaches to those of Marshall. For Student Workshops, certain materials are available for distribution ahead of time.

To contact Ms. Thompson about a speaking engagement or special Student Workshop please call (703) 777-1880 or e-mail education@georgecmarshall.org.